Hollywood icon Tom Cruise has broken his silence following the tragic death of his Top Gun co-star, Val Kilmer, earlier this week.
Kilmer, who passed away at 65 due to pneumonia, was remembered fondly by Cruise. This was during an emotional appearance at CinemaCon in Las Vegas on Thursday.
TOM CRUISE REMEMBERS HIS FRIEND
Cruise, 62, took the stage to honour his late friend and colleague, leading the audience in silence, according to Page Six.
“I’d like to honour a dear friend of mine, Val Kilmer,” Cruise began. “I can’t tell you how much I admire his work and how grateful I was when he joined Top Gun.
He brought so much to the film and later returned for Top Gun: Maverick. It was a privilege to work with him.”
VAL KILMER IN TOP GUN
Kilmer famously portrayed Tom ‘Iceman’ Kazansky, the rival-turned-ally of Cruise’s Pete ‘Maverick’ Mitchell in the original Top Gun (1986).
Their chemistry on-screen was electric, and their reunion in Top Gun: Maverick (2022) was poignant, according to BBC.
Despite losing his ability to speak due to throat cancer treatments, Kilmer reprised his role with the help of AI technology. It was a testament to his dedication and love for acting.
TOM CRUISE AND VAL KILMER’S BOND
Reflecting on their time together, Cruise added: “I think it would be nice if we could have a moment together because he loved movies and gave so much to all of us.
Just think about all the wonderful times we had with him.” He concluded with a heartfelt farewell: “I wish you well on your next journey.”
VAL KILMER’S CAREER
Kilmer’s career spanned decades, earning him acclaim for roles in films such as The Doors, Tombstone, and Batman Forever.
He was celebrated not only for his talent but also for his intensity and commitment to his craft.
Born in Los Angeles and trained at Juilliard, Kilmer quickly rose to prominence as one of Hollywood’s most versatile actors, according to Today.
His portrayal of Jim Morrison in The Doors (1991) remains iconic. Val Kilmer’s portrayal of Doc Holliday in Tombstone (1993) stands as one of the most acclaimed depictions of the legendary gunslinger.
His performance captivated audiences with its wit, charisma, and layered intensity, cementing his role as the standout star of the film
HEALTH BATTLES
Kilmer’s ability to immerse himself in characters made him unforgettable on screen. However, Kilmer’s later years were marked by health struggles.
Diagnosed with throat cancer in 2015, he underwent chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and multiple tracheotomies.
Although he was declared cancer-free in 2021, he continued to face complications from his treatments.
In recent years, he reportedly became bedridden and frail before succumbing to pneumonia earlier this week at his Los Angeles home.
VAL KILMER’S CHILDREN
Val Kilmer’s two children, Mercedes and Jack, mourned their father’s passing after he succumbed to pneumonia at age 65.
Mercedes confirmed his death and comforted her mother, Joanne Whalley, outside their Los Angeles home shortly after the news broke.
The family has requested privacy during this difficult time but expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love from fans worldwide.
Kilmer’s death resonates globally, including here in South Africa, where fans have long admired his work.
LEGACY
His performances transcended borders, touching audiences with their depth and authenticity.
As South Africans reflect on Kilmer’s legacy, many are revisiting classics like Top Gun, Tombstone, and Batman Forever.
REST IN PEACE
Tom Cruise’s tribute serves as a powerful reminder of Kilmer’s impact—not just as an actor but as a cherished friend and collaborator.
“Thank you, Val,” Cruise said simply but profoundly.
With those words, Hollywood bids farewell to one of its brightest stars—a man whose artistry will continue to inspire generations.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE VAL KILMER MOVIE AND WHY?
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